TPH and the Toronto Police Service have received inquiries in the past week from food premise operators in Toronto who have been contacted in person or by phone by individuals claiming to be health inspectors and telling them they must purchase a first-aid kit for $300.

“If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a Toronto Public Health inspector attempting to schedule an inspection, asking for personal information or selling first-aid kits, contact your local police department,” said Jim Chan, food safety manager with Toronto Public Health. “Legitimate public health inspectors do not call ahead to schedule inspections. In most cases, inspections are unannounced. As well, TPH inspectors do not sell first-aid kits to food operators.”

Restaurant operators can also contact TPH at 416-338-7600 to verify the identity of an inspector. TPH inspectors carry a badge and a photo identification card.